Leaves & Fractals
Author: Ginna Roach
Posted: Friday, November 11th, 2023
Grades:3 - 6
Type: Lesson activity
Time: 60 minutes +
Topics: Symmetry, self-similarity, patterns, repeated algorithms/iterative algorithms
Overview
In this lesson, students will collect a variety of leaves for examination (weather permitting). From there, they will create leaf rubbings and use those leaf rubbings to discuss symmetry and self-similarity. The idea of self-similarity will lead to a short exploration of fractals, ending with students creating their own personal fractal design
Time needed: 60 minutes +
Recommended Grades: 3rd - 6th
Math Concepts: Symmetry, self-similarity, patterns, repeated, algorithms/iterative algorithms
Materials:
Leaf Hunt list ( Found in lesson files)
Computer paper
Tape
Parchment paper or tracing paper
Crayons
Colored pencils / markers
Vocabulary
Fractal: A figure in which each part has the same overall character as the whole. Fractals are useful in modeling structures (such as eroded coastlines or snowflakes) in which similar patterns recur at progressively smaller scales, and in describing partly random or chaotic phenomena such as crystal growth, fluid turbulence, and galaxy formation.
Additional Resources
Math Games For Kids (lesson plans for drawing Sierpinski & Koch, exploring area and perimeter, and creating them with cut-outs)
Fractals: Math is Written in the Leaves — Saskatchewan Science Centre (lesson plan about leaf fractals)
